SaaS - Software as a Service, Storage as a Service

(1) Short for Software as aService, SaaS is a software delivery method that provides access to software and its functions remotely as a Web-based service. Software as a Service allows organizations to access business functionality at a cost typically less than paying for licensed applications since SaaS pricing is based on a monthly fee. Also, because the software is hosted remotely, users don't need to invest in additional hardware. Software as a Service removes the need for organizations to handle the installation, set-up and often daily upkeep and maintenance. Software as a Service may also be referred to as simply hosted applications. See related term ASP.

(2) Short for Storage as aService, SaaS is a term used to describe a storage model where a business or organization (the client) rents or leases storage space from a third-party provider. Data is transferred from the client to the service provider via the Internet and the client would then access their stored data using software provided by the storage provider. The software is used to perform common tasks related to storage, such as data backups and data transfers. Storage as a Service is popular with SMBs because there are usually no start-up costs (e.g., servers, hard disks, IT staff and so on) involved. Businesses pay for the service based only on the amount of storage space used. Storage as a Service may also be called hosted storage. See related term Storage Service Provider.

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